Where to Go Apple Picking

Apple season generally begins on Labor Day weekend and generally extends through Thanksgiving weekend (though some farms have already finished up their season). An apple-picking trip is a fun, memorable way to spend the day! Be sure to check each location’s current crop status and hours before you visit.

Riley’s Farm is a “working apple orchard and living history farm featuring pick-your-own fruit, living history education, dinner theatre” and more. Families will enjoy several “U-Pick” options (depending on the season) including apples, pears, strawberries, and blackberries. (Check the website for details). Families can also pre-order a pie from the Colonial Chesterfield Bakery to guarantee you’ve got one of these tasty treats saved with your name on it!

If you’re heading north along the central coast, stop at the See Canyon Fruit Ranch in San Luis Obispo. The Apple Stand is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm from September through the end of November. A variety of different apples are offered here, depending on when you visit, including Red Delicious, Gala, Pippin, and many more. Families can also enjoy freshly pressed apple cider, ranch-raised honey, farm fresh eggs, apple butter, and lots more.

You’ll find many varieties of apples at Parrish Ranch including some that are unique to this area including the Vasquez which was “developed by long-time Parrish Ranch foreman, Juan Vasquez.” Apple season means the Parrish Pioneer Ranch is open seven days a week, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on the weekdays, and 9:00 am to 6:00 pm on the weekends through the end of November. There are also lots of items to sample including apple cider, apple butter, apple salsa, and more.

Los Rios Rancho is regarded as “southern California’s largest Apple farm in operation since 1906.” Visiting families will find traditional farming techniques here as well as historic entertainment and lots of fun. During fall weekends, families will enjoy wagon and hayrides, a petting zoo, corn maze, and more. Los Rios Rancho produces 32 different apple varieties. During their off season, they bring in apples from other local organic farmers. The on-site cafe and country store are open year-round.

“Since 1898, Snow-Line Orchard has been a source of apples, cider, and beautiful views.” You’ll find a variety of items here including fresh apples, cider, specialty gifts, farm-made wine, and more. You’ll want to make sure to taste the mini cider donuts (and even bring some home!). They are open seven days a week, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. You’ll find picnic tables on site, so be sure to pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful scenery while you’re there.

Families are invited to enjoy U-Pick Apple Season at SLO Creek Farms everyday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm through the end of November. These organic apples grow on the 44-acre site and promise to be the “best apples you’ll ever taste.” Families also speak highly of the generally not crowded, relatively quiet atmosphere found here.

There is a lot to do at Riley’s Apple Farm in addition to selecting some juicy, fresh apples. Families can participate in archery activities, cider pressing, and more. There is no admission fee though some of the special activities do have a fee. Riley’s Apple Farm is open on weekends only from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

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Wendy is a freelance writer who finds inspiration in her nine-year-old son and from her experiences from her twelve-year teaching career. Her writing has appeared in several publications and anthologies, both in print and online. She prefers sunflowers to roses and thinks chocolate is okay at any meal. You can find her at wendykennar.com.

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